HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The flooding is presenting some problems for the Hutchinson Zoo. Water from the pond on the zoo grounds has overflowed into the public area so zoo displays are closed.

Zoo Director Ryan VanZant says they are on top of things and the animals are safe, although the animal displays are closed. “In the public areas, it surrounds one of our little playgrounds, in our service areas it’s made life a bit of a challenge,” VanZant said. Some of the animals were moved to other buildings while some took a little bit of water in stride.

VanZant says similar events in the past helped them prepare for the high water. “The zoo flooded in 2007 so we learned a lot from that flood and we put some of those procedures and policies into action and so far, so good,” VanZant added.

While the displays are closed, the Prairie Thunder Railroad and the gift shop are still open. VanZant did not say how long the display areas will be closed.